{"id":442530,"date":"2026-05-11T01:51:14","date_gmt":"2026-05-11T01:51:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/442530\/"},"modified":"2026-05-11T01:51:14","modified_gmt":"2026-05-11T01:51:14","slug":"discover-irelands-unique-approach-to-wellness","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/442530\/","title":{"rendered":"Discover Ireland&#8217;s unique approach to wellness"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>A certain magic happens when boiling hot seawater is poured over hand-harvested seaweed. As steam billows off the surface, an alginate gel is released, packed with nutrients and minerals that promise to deeply nourish the skin. A soak in those weedy waters \u2013 whether in an old whiskey barrel right beside the ocean or a copper tub in a tranquil garden setting \u2013 is an Irish ritual that soothes both body and soul.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s just one of the many wellness experiences on offer in Ireland, where ancient traditions, awe-inspiring landscapes and the art of slowing down converge in a uniquely relaxing way.<\/p>\n<p>As <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourismireland.com\/trade\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Sofia Hansson<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourismireland.com\/trade\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Tourism Ireland<\/a> Market Manager ANZ, told LATTE: \u201cIn Ireland, you can combine that wellness focus and sense of slowing down, with also getting close to nature. You\u2019re getting away from it all, but in the outdoors.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Here, bathing therapies \u2013  like those found at <a href=\"https:\/\/wildatlanticseaweedbaths.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Wild Atlantic Seaweed Baths<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/cliffatlyons.ie\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Cliff at Lyons,<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.voyaseaweedbaths.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">VOYA Seaweed Baths<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/connemaraseaweedbaths.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Connemara Seaweed Baths<\/a> to name a few \u2013 draw on local ingredients like seaweed or even peat from Ireland\u2019s ancient boglands, whose benefits are scientifically proven. By combining their efficacy with the positive effects of immersion in nature, these experiences offer a powerful boost to both physical and emotional wellbeing.<\/p>\n<p>Indeed, research has shown that spending at least\u00a0120 minutes per week\u00a0in the great outdoors is associated with significantly better wellbeing \u2013 something the Irish seem to have understood for generations.<\/p>\n<p>Here are some other ways to embrace wellness on the Emerald Isle:<\/p>\n<p>Above the waves \u2013 Ireland\u2019s coastal walks<img data-lazyloaded=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Ben-Goram-Co-Mayo-1132-x-560.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1132\" height=\"560\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The elemental drama of Ireland\u2019s coastal walkways make them the ideal place for walkers to absorb nature\u2019s raw energy as they take in the spectacular vistas. Great starting points are the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ireland.com\/en-au\/destinations\/experiences\/wild-atlantic-way\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Wild Atlantic Way<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ireland.com\/en-au\/destinations\/regions\/causeway-coast\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Causeway Coast<\/a>, where paths range from rugged cliff walks to gentler seaside routes, blending dramatic scenery with local legend. Given the island setting, there is a remarkable breadth of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ireland.com\/en-au\/magazine\/walking\/coastal-walks\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">coastal routes<\/a>\u00a0to explore from iconic trails to lesser-known gems. Other highlights include the Beara Way, the Dingle Way and the Inishowen Trail Loop, as well as Achill Island\u2019s dramatic hills in County Mayo.<\/p>\n<p>Elsewhere, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ireland.com\/magazine\/built-heritage\/the-gobbins\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Gobbins Cliff Path<\/a> offers a thrilling walk above the sea\u2019s rhythmic churn while over in Ireland\u2019s Ancient East, the Copper Coast Geopark is a striking stretch of cliffs, coves and sea stacks shaped by both nature and history.<\/p>\n<p>Taking a dip \u2013 restorative bathing<img data-lazyloaded=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/HEADER-Lough-Derg-Tipperry-Couple-1132-x-560.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1132\" height=\"560\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p>From forest bathing to sea swimming, immersion in the island\u2019s waters encourages a deep connection with nature and a revitalising reset for mind and body. Woodland retreats like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.killeavycastle.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Killeavy Castle<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/holidays.cabu.co.uk\/forest-bathing-ireland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Cabu<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/xhale.biz\/retreats\/forest-bathing-retreat\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Xhale <\/a>set the scene for forest bathing, helping reduce stress and boost mood. Refreshing lake swims are also deeply therapeutic with Lough Derg in Clare, Lough Ouler in Wicklow and Camlough Lake in Armagh some popular options for wild swimming. In Dublin, the famed <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ireland.com\/en-au\/magazine\/water-activities\/the-forty-foot\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Forty Foot<\/a> offers bracing wild swims in the Irish Sea, long celebrated for its invigorating effect.<\/p>\n<p>Along the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ireland.com\/en-au\/destinations\/experiences\/wild-atlantic-way\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Wild Atlantic Way<\/a>, heated seaweed baths combine ocean views with centuries-old healing traditions while at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.finnlough.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Finn Lough<\/a> in Fermanagh, a lakeside spa trail blends saunas, hot tubs and cold plunges in a tranquil forest setting. Meanwhile, the <a href=\"https:\/\/thehotboxsauna.ie\/?srsltid=AfmBOooSDiu7P8SYf5fpHiZY3AjwnXp6lqb9TWqaJDTEkS7Z-4tlacVW\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Hot Box Sauna<\/a> on the River Boyne pairs cold-water immersion with wood-fired warmth.<\/p>\n<p>A night in nature: Irish glamping experiences<img data-lazyloaded=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Cromore-Retreat-Londonderry-1132-x-560.png\" alt=\"Ireland wellness\" width=\"1132\" height=\"560\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p>To experience nature under the stars once meant roughing it, but that is no longer the case. Now you can stay overnight in some of Ireland\u2019s most stunning spots in stylish comfort. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ireland.com\/en-au\/magazine\/adventure-activities\/glamping-in-ireland\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Glamping accommodation<\/a> ranges from safari tents at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dromquinnamanor.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Dromquinna Manor<\/a> to bubble domes at <a href=\"https:\/\/cromoreretreat.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Cromore Retreat<\/a> in Derry-Londonderry as well as woodland suites at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.themontenottehotel.com\/the-woodland-suite-experience\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">The Montenotte<\/a> in Cork and beachside pods at Aran Islands Camping and Glamping in Galway.<\/p>\n<p>Many offer easy access to national parks, coastal routes and cultural landmarks. Sustainability is also key, with many sites using local produce, reducing waste and supporting surrounding communities.<\/p>\n<p>A different perspective \u2013 horseback riding<img data-lazyloaded=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Horse-Riding-Co-Sligo-1132-x-560.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1132\" height=\"560\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Horses offer a unique way to explore the island\u2019s diverse landscapes, from its sandy Atlantic beaches and rugged mountains to lush parklands and tranquil countryside. In Sligo and Mayo, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ireland.com\/things-to-do\/themes\/equestrian\/equestrian-holidays\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">horse rides<\/a> along the coast combine sea air with panoramic views, while Kerry\u2019s Killarney and Dingle offer scenic treks through national parks and rolling hills.<\/p>\n<p>Horse rising centres in places like Clare and Offaly provide peaceful rural escapes with country roads, farmland and traditional hospitality. For a more in-depth stay, estates like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.castleleslie.com\/?gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=48086346&amp;gbraid=0AAAAAD1T1ERiGaow7SJq3uv7cVuFPgQVM&amp;gclid=EAIaIQobChMInOSn8PmOlAMVEIRmAh0QahGwEAAYASAAEgKvgfD_BwE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Castle Leslie<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mountjuliet.ie\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Mount Juliet <\/a>feature extensive grounds, bridleways and expert tuition.<\/p>\n<p>The ultimate relaxation \u2013 Ireland\u2019s high-end spas<img data-lazyloaded=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Drumhierney-Woodland-Hideaway-1132-x-560.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1132\" height=\"560\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The island of Ireland has a number of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ireland.com\/en-au\/magazine\/wellness\/ireland-spas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">high-end spas<\/a> especially designed to help guests unwind and relax in comfort, blending natural therapies with refined luxury often in striking settings. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.drumhiernyhideaway.ie\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Drumhierney Woodland Hideaway<\/a> offers natural therapies in a stunning forest location, while mineral-rich seaweed baths at <a href=\"https:\/\/solasnamara.ie\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Solas na Mara Spa and Wellness Centre<\/a> in Waterford harness centuries-old healing traditions to relax muscles and nourish skin.<\/p>\n<p>New for 2026 is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehawthornhotel.ie\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">The Hawthorn Spa<\/a> at Galway Bay \u00a0where a relaxation journey incorporates mineral steam, Finnish sauna and infrared heat as well as immersion therapy on top of its menu of treatments. Across the island, Ireland\u2019s top luxury hotels also offer wellness experiences, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.galgorm.com\/?srsltid=AfmBOopJ-ddaR6G9sNxrqOUghlRGb9Tu_xnFamYL__1Nk7R3rIKzRdDS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Galgorm <\/a>with its riverside hot tubs and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.muckrosspark.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Muckross Park Hotel &amp; Spa<\/a>\u2018s deeply restorative treatments. <a href=\"https:\/\/ashfordcastle.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Ashford Castle <\/a>and <a href=\"https:\/\/cliffhousehotel.ie\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Cliff House Hotel <\/a>also offer a range of therapies.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourismireland.com\/trade\/tour-ideas\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">For more inspiration or to plan a trip, visit Tourism Ireland\u2019s suggested wellness itineraries here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Become an Ireland Specialist!<\/p>\n<p>Completing the Ireland Specialist Program gives you practical, up to date knowledge to help you sell Ireland with confidence. You\u2019ll learn more about the regions, as well as hidden gems across the island of Ireland, and how to put together tailored, sellable itineraries.<\/p>\n<p>Sign up\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/tourismireland.learnupon.com\/users\/sign_in?next=%2Fdashboard\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">HERE<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"A certain magic happens when boiling hot seawater is poured over hand-harvested seaweed. As steam billows off the&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":442531,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[61,60,43,192679,102194,32863,6014,1184],"class_list":["post-442530","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-ireland","tag-ie","tag-ireland","tag-news","tag-sofia-hansson","tag-spa","tag-tourism-ireland","tag-wellbeing","tag-wellness"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/442530","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=442530"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/442530\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/442531"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=442530"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=442530"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=442530"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}